The key to observing Lent is found in
the Scripture lessons for Ash Wednesday. They all stress the spiritual aspects of
fasting and repentance. The Gospel from St. Matthew 6 makes it clear that a
disciple's attitude is very important. Our Lord assumes that His followers will
fast. However, the key to proper devotion and discipline is attitude. Christ's followers should not be hypocritical or ostentatious but sincere and humble.
Given fallen and distorted human nature,
there is always a tendency for humans to go astray in religious and devotional
practices. At the time of the Reformation, many people
had lost sight of the church's original intentions for Lent. Church rules on Lent had become increasingly complicated and rigid. Secular
governments got involved in enforcing church rules, and only a few people
seemed to remember the inward goals of their outward practices.
Such issues led Protestant Reformers to try to reduce the
complications, rules, and abuses. Luther and his followers
sought a moderate approach, and Evangelical Lutherans generally tried to keep Ash Wednesday and
Lent as times to emphasize devotional renewal in preparation for Easter. Any special services, readings, prayers, or forms of self-discipline were supposed to encourage inner spiritual awareness and renewal.
As we consider Lent in our churches and in our personal lives, let us focus on our devotion to God and our understanding of
Christ’s journey toward the Cross. External acts of devotion can be useful. Increasing our
prayer time and Bible study is good. Giving up or decreasing some food, drink,
entertainment, or purchases can be suitable reminders. Giving more money or time to
charity is valuable. These and other practices can be expressions of faith and
renewal. But the most important thing about Lent is our inner attitude.
In all we think, say, and do, let us repent, think of Christ, and respond to Him with living faith. Faith in Christ is the central issue!
